The Tustin Chili Cook-Off Returns This Weekend: Food, Fun, and Community

One of Orange County's most beloved community events is back! The annual Tustin Chili Cook-Off returns this weekend, bringing together great food, live entertainment, local vendors, and plenty of family-friendly fun.

For years, the Tustin Chili Cook-Off has been a tradition that brings residents, local businesses, and visitors together to celebrate everything that makes this community special. Whether you're a chili enthusiast looking to crown your favorite recipe or simply looking for a fun weekend outing, there's something for everyone.

What to Expect

Visitors can sample a wide variety of chili recipes prepared by talented cooks competing for bragging rights and top honors. From traditional Texas-style chili to creative local favorites, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover a new favorite.

Beyond the chili tasting, attendees can enjoy:

• Live music and entertainment
• Local food and beverage vendors
• Family activities and games
• Community booths and local businesses
• Opportunities to support local organizations and charities

Why Community Events Matter

Events like the Tustin Chili Cook-Off are a great reminder of what makes Orange County such a wonderful place to call home. They create opportunities to connect with neighbors, support local businesses, and enjoy the unique character of our communities.

As someone who has spent many years helping families buy and sell homes throughout Orange County, I always encourage people to take advantage of events like these. A great neighborhood is about more than just homes—it's about the people, traditions, and community events that bring everyone together.

Planning Your Visit

If you're looking for something fun to do this weekend, consider spending part of your day at the Tustin Chili Cook-Off. Bring your appetite, bring the family, and get ready to enjoy one of Tustin's most anticipated annual events.

Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, it's a great opportunity to experience the community spirit that makes Tustin such a special place to live.

Have a great weekend, and if you're attending, let me know which chili earns your vote for best in town!

Parking & Event Tips

With more than 40,000 attendees expected, parking can fill up quickly, so arriving early is highly recommended.

Recommended Parking Locations:

• Civic Center & Library – 300 Centennial Way (largest public parking lot)
• Public Parking Structure behind Rutabegorz – 242 W. Main Street
• Water Facility Parking Lot – 275 Main Street
• Tustin High School – 1171 El Camino Real ($5 parking fundraiser with shuttle service)
• Columbus Tustin Recreation Center – 17522 Beneta Way (free shuttle service available)

Free Shuttle Service
Shuttles will run from both Tustin High School and the Columbus Tustin Recreation Center beginning at 10:30 a.m., with the final return shuttle departing the event at 6:15 p.m.

Important Rules & Reminders

• Parking in private business lots is discouraged unless specifically permitted by the property owner.
• Several streets throughout Old Town Tustin will be closed for the event, so plan your route in advance.
• The event is accessible by foot only once you're in the festival area.
• Bring sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a lawn chair or blanket if you'd like to enjoy the live music at Peppertree Park.
• Canopies are not permitted, but umbrellas are welcome.

Pro Tip: If you're coming primarily for the chili tasting, get there early. The most popular chili booths often sell out well before the event ends.

This year's event takes place Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Old Town Tustin and remains the largest one-day chili cook-off in the country.